One of the biggest concerns you may face when you transition aging loved ones into an assisted living facility in Florida is how you can continue to monitor their well-being. Advocating for their rights and wishes and ensuring they receive the best possible care can seem impossible when you cannot physically attend to them 24/7.
Knowing some of the most effective strategies for continued participation in their care can help you to proceed with confidence. Relying on staff members to coordinate and manage your loved one’s care does not mean you need to relinquish all control.
Start planning early
Encourage your family members to plan for their future even before age becomes a factor. Discuss end-of-life wishes and help them articulate their desires in an advanced directive. If they want to establish someone as a power of attorney, help them formally and legally make their designation. When looking for a care facility, find one that meets individual needs and requirements.
Having a clear picture of what your family members want can make it easier to identify abuse later on. If you have loved ones in a facility and you notice things occurring that contradict what they have told you they want in the past, it could be a warning sign of mistreatment.
Run your own audits
Once your family member moves into an assisted living facility, establish a consistent visitation schedule. Monitor their behavior and the interaction they have with staff members while you are there. Look for warning signs like suspicious injuries, personality changes and poor hygiene. According to Seniorly, drop in unannounced at times to get a true picture of what happens when you are not around. You can run your own audits of the conditions and confidently assess whether or not your expectations for care are being met.